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CAD Software and Tools Flashcards

6 cards from real 3D Product practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 CAD Software and Tools flashcards as text

  1. What is 'topology optimization' and which type of software performs it?

    Answer: An algorithm that removes material from low-stress regions to create the most efficient structure for a given load

    Topology optimization (available in tools like Fusion 360, nTopology, and Altair Inspire) computes the optimal material distribution for given loads and boundary conditions.

  2. What is the role of 'Grasshopper' in the Rhino 3D ecosystem?

    Answer: A visual programming environment that enables algorithmic and parametric design generation

    Grasshopper is a visual scripting tool in Rhino that allows designers to build parametric algorithms driving geometry, enabling complex patterns, generative forms, and mass customization.

  3. What is 'reverse engineering' in the context of 3D product design, and what hardware is commonly used?

    Answer: 3D scanning a physical object to create a digital CAD model, using structured-light scanners or LIDAR

    Reverse engineering uses 3D scanning technology to capture the physical geometry of an existing object as a point cloud, which is then processed into a surface or solid CAD model.

  4. What is 'PLM' (Product Lifecycle Management) and how does it extend beyond PDM?

    Answer: A system managing all product data and processes from concept through end-of-life, including design, manufacturing, and service

    PLM encompasses PDM but extends to manage the entire product lifecycle — including requirements, supply chain, quality, compliance, and service documentation.

  5. What is 'generative design' in modern CAD software?

    Answer: An AI-driven process that generates multiple optimized design alternatives based on goals and constraints

    Generative design (in Fusion 360, Creo, etc.) uses algorithms to explore thousands of design solutions that meet specified load cases, material constraints, and manufacturing methods.

  6. What is a 'master model' strategy in large product development teams?

    Answer: A single reference CAD model from which all sub-teams derive their component geometry through in-context references

    A master model contains key surfaces and reference geometry that all downstream parts reference, ensuring alignment across the team and reducing interface mismatch errors.